It's hard to decide which is more exciting: catching a glimpse of the world's largest mammal or the high-speed boat ride to get you there. Three outdoor decks allow for optimal viewing, so bring your camera.

What better way to view the magnificent marine mammals that reside in Atlantic waters than aboard one of Boston’s finest maritime vessels—a Boston Harbor Cruises high-speed catamaran? Spend less time getting to the whales, and more time getting to know them when you take a cruise aboard one of Boston Harbor Cruises’ top-notch vessels!

Boston Harbor Cruises’ catamarans feature 3 outdoor decks to give passengers optimum viewing options, and also have a comfortable indoor climate-controlled cabin for an optimal experience no matter the weather. Make yourself comfortable amidst cushioned seating, tables, top-notch sound and video system, and an array of snacks and beverages available for purchase.

Your Whale Watch excursion will be led by professional researchers from the Whale Center of New England, New England’s leading authority on whale populations. These knowledgeable guides will answer questions, narrate the tour, and assist passengers in knowing where to look to spot the beautiful whales that are the central focus of this exciting cruise.

Short of actually swimming with whales (which sounds a little cold and dangerous, doesn’t it?), New England Aquarium by Boston Harbor Cruises offers you the most appealing opportunity to sail in their midst and marvel at the giant mammals that dominate the depths of our oceans. Here’s a little preview of the creatures you may behold on your New England Aquarium Whale Watch voyage:

Humpback Whales: These absolutely stunning long-flippered ocean giants are named for the arch their back makes as they prepare to dive to the depths of the ocean floor. Until you’ve seen one, you can’t fathom the size and sheer beauty of these whales

Finback Whales: These behemoth whales are second in size only to Blue Whales, measuring in at 40-70 feet long and weighing up to 40 tons as adults

Minke Whales: The most populous whale in the world, Minkes are smaller, dolphin-like baleen whales (meaning they filter water and nutrients through a “baleen”, or whalebone)

White Sided Dolphins: These playful creatures are only found in the waters of the North Atlantic, between New England and Norway, and feed on solitary creatures like squid, rather than schools of fish, as whales do

Your New England Aquarium Whale Watch by Boston Harbor Cruise promises to be…a whale of a time (well, it had to be said), and you will leave Boston Harbor with a newfound appreciation for the grace and antics of the mammals that swim beneath the surface of the cold Atlantic. Enjoy the views from your high-speed catamaran as you cruise out to the deep waters, and let the fun begin!

Build your own discount attraction pass and save on combined admission to two or more attractions. Enjoy guaranteed discounts on Boston Whale Watch tickets and your choice of other top attractions.

Getting In

The Boston Harbor Cruise (BHC) Ticket Center is located on Long Wharf, to the left of the New England Aquarium. Present your pass to any ticket agent, board the cat and enjoy!

Closings

Nov 1 - Late- March

Note

Please arrive at least 30 minutes prior to departure. Tour duration is 4 hours. Children under age 3 will be subject to an admission fee.

Please note, Go Boston Card holders may enter this attraction until closing or 5:30 pm, whichever comes first. Reservations are not required, but are suggested for weekends and holidays. Dates and times are subject to change.

The crew was amazing. I asked them if I would see any lighthouses along the route to the whale area. Not only did they answer me they came and found me each time we were coming close. The Captain even found me and pointed out interesting facts about the lighthouses. They act like they love what they do.

It was a great trip as we saw Hancock surface at least a dozen times and she did a full breach with a twist! The only downside is that the crowds keep shifting while on the boat to get to see her. It's a bit chaotic at first until the initial excitement settles downs, so being tall helps. You can also just stake out one position as the boat is constantly manuervering and you will get some good views. Don't worry about taking any dramamine as the catamaran is smooth sailing and the water near the tip of the Cape is not that choppy.

The ride was chilly but fun, we rode the afternoon watch. Being 4'9 I wasn't able to see the whale that came up next to the boat, and I got a little frustrated. I heard alot of ooooohs and aaaaaahs. Towards the end of the visit I had an intimate moment with a humpback as he turned over and waved :), so worth the ride! definitely take the afternoon, that seems to be their feeding time.

I've done this whale watch every year and it never disappoints! Boston Harbor Cruises has the best vessels and the most educated on-board naturalists to narrate the tour. I've gone on whale trips with two other companies in Boston, but have learned that BHC is superior. That's why I wasn't surprised to learn that they are now operating the whale watch for the New England Aquarium. Each time I have gone, I have seen whales. I understand that they guarantee it or your money back, but I've never had to apply for a refund. I've done whale watching in Seattle and in New England and I love this tour!!